Chorizo, Spinach and Tomato Pasta with Red Pesto
Being the night after the big day, I had a lot of tired, grumpy kids. We needed something filling and quick. This meal didn't fail and at under £4.00 all in was great value for money too.
Being the night after the big day, I had a lot of tired, grumpy kids. We needed something filling and quick. This meal didn't fail and at under £4.00 all in was great value for money too.
- Carbohydrate 64.0426 g
- Cholesterol 125.76 mg
- Fat 21.906 g
- Fiber 1.10000002384186 g
- Protein 26.1472 g
- Saturated Fat 7.58886 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (214g)
- Sodium 686.12 mg
- Sugar 62.9425999761581 g
- Trans Fat 1.94108 g
- Calories 562 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook the pasta as per instructions on pack
- While the pasta was cooking, heat a little oil in a pan and add the garlic, cooking for about a minute before adding the tomatoes and cooking for another couple of minutes.
- Add the chorizo and cook for a further 2-3 minutes.
- Add the spinach and cook for a couple of minutes until wilted.
- Using a paddle with holes, spoon the cooked pasta into the pan, ensuring a few tablespoons of pasta water are transferred.
- Mix the pasta and pour in the red pesto, warming it through and mixing before serving.
Chorizo, Spinach and Tomato Pasta with Red Pesto: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy mom, finding quick, easy, and delicious meals is a constant quest. There are nights when even the thought of cooking feels overwhelming, especially after a long day filled with the chaos of family life. This Chorizo, Spinach and Tomato Pasta with Red Pesto recipe is my go-to lifesaver on those nights. It's surprisingly inexpensive, comes together in a flash, and most importantly, pleases even the pickiest of eaters (which, let's be honest, is a HUGE win in my book!).
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques—just a handful of readily available pantry staples transformed into a flavourful and satisfying meal. I usually grab a jar of pre-made red pesto to save time, but if you're feeling ambitious, you can easily make your own. The chorizo provides a delightful smoky kick, the spinach adds a touch of freshness, and the cherry tomatoes burst with sweet, juicy goodness. All this is perfectly complemented by the rich, creamy pesto and perfectly cooked pasta. The whole family loves it, and it's a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables, particularly for my kids, who are notoriously fussy.
I often find myself juggling multiple roles – from running a home, to managing the kids' schedules and trying to maintain a sense of self. Dinner time can sometimes feel like a battleground, but this recipe truly helps to create a calmer, more enjoyable atmosphere. It's not just about providing nourishment; it's about sharing a simple pleasure together as a family. The aroma that wafts from the kitchen as the chorizo sizzles and the spinach wilts is enough to calm even the grumpiest little faces. And that, my friends, is a priceless reward.
The best part? The entire dish is ready in under 15 minutes. From start to finish, it's an incredibly quick and efficient meal prep. This allows me to spend less time in the kitchen and more time connecting with my family. It's budget friendly too which is essential when you are juggling lots of priorities. I often find this recipe is a winner during those super busy week nights when time feels more precious than ever. The combination of flavors is amazing, it’s so satisfying and filling but it doesn't feel heavy after eating it. Everyone at the table is always happy with this hearty meal. Honestly, it’s worth every penny and every minute to make.
It's perfect for those unexpected guests, those days when you're just too tired to even think about cooking, or just any old Tuesday night. It's adaptable to whatever you have on hand, you can add other vegetables if desired and experiment with different types of pasta. It’s versatile, delicious and utterly simple to make.
So next time you find yourself facing a weeknight dinner dilemma, try this recipe. I promise you, you won't regret it. The happy faces around your dinner table will be the best reward.
